The lively industrial town of Villefranche-sur-Saône is the capital of the Beaujolais region and is known for its vin nouveau (new wine). Thanks to marketing hype, this youthful, fruity red wine is eagerly gulped down around the world every year on the third Thursday of November.
Also check out Rue Nationale, lined with photogenic, authentic examples of Renaissance architecture, courtyards, and alleyways.